EPFO Introduces Face Authentication for UAN Activation: Key Details

Fast Summary:

• EPFO Update: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced Aadhaar-based Face Authentication Technology (FAT) for Universal Account Number (UAN) generation and activation, as announced by Union Labor Minister Mansukh Mandaviya.
• New Process:

– Employees can directly generate UAN via the Umang Mobile App using Aadhaar FAT.
– Employers can also use Aadhaar FAT through the same app to generate UAN for new employees.

• Steps to Generate UAN:

– Use UMANG App; provide Aadhaar details and linked mobile number.
– Consent for verification; validate OTP; capture live photo.
– Once matched with Aadhaar records, UAN is generated via SMS; users can download their UAN card afterward on the app or Member Portal.

• Advantages of FAT:

– Ensures robust security through biometric authentication compared to traditional methods like OTP validation.
– Allows easy activation of existing inactive UANs by members without employer intervention.
– Facilitates wide-ranging self-service options in EPFO services,fostering a contactless system.

• In FY 2024-25,EPFO allotted over 1.26 crore UANs, but only about 35.30% (44 lakh) were activated during that period.

Read More

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The introduction of Aadhaar-linked Face Authentication Technology (FAT) by EPFO represents an important step toward digitization and streamlining processes in India’s social security infrastructure. By reducing reliance on employers or regional offices for tasks like generating or activating Universal account Numbers (UAN), this initiative promises greater independence and efficiency at the user level.

Despite its potential benefits such as heightened security measures and simplified workflows, data suggests limited adoption rates-only around one-third of allotted UANs were activated during FY 2024-25. This poses questions regarding digital literacy amongst users and accessibility challenges that may hinder broader usage. tackling these issues will be critical for achieving maximum impact from such advancements.

while this move strengthens India’s push toward secure digital governance systems, efforts must also focus on promoting awareness about tools like UMANG App among members while ensuring inclusivity across diverse user demographics.